Pasta with Arugula and Tuna Pesto
Category: Main Courses
Serves: 4
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fusilli Bucati Corti (or any short pasta of your choice) | 320g |
| Canned Tuna in Olive Oil | 130g |
| Lemon Zest | 1 (from 1 lemon) |
| Sea Salt | To taste |
| Fresh Arugula | 120g |
| Almonds | 50g |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 140g |
| Cherry Tomatoes (Piccadilly type) | 100g |
| Fresh Basil | A few leaves (to taste) |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 450mg |
Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Once boiling, add the Fusilli Bucati Corti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Save a cup of pasta water before draining.
-
Prepare the Pesto:
- In a blender or food processor, add the fresh arugula, a few leaves of basil, almonds, cherry tomatoes, and lemon zest.
- Drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil and blend until smooth. If needed, add a tablespoon of water to help blend the ingredients.
-
Combine the Pesto with Pasta:
- Transfer the pesto mixture into a large skillet (don’t turn on the heat yet).
- Add a ladle of the pasta cooking water to the pesto to loosen it up and help mix everything well.
- Stir to combine.
-
Add the Tuna:
- Drain the canned tuna, then gently flake it into the pesto mixture.
- Stir everything together to incorporate the tuna into the pesto.
-
Mix with Pasta:
- Add the drained Fusilli Bucati Corti to the skillet with the pesto and tuna.
- Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the pesto sauce. If necessary, add a bit more pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, if needed.
- Plate the pasta, garnish with extra fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delightful Pasta with Arugula and Tuna Pesto!
This delicious, light, and flavorful pasta combines the peppery freshness of arugula with the richness of tuna, creating a satisfying dish thatβs perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a gathering with friends. The almonds add a subtle crunch, while the fresh basil and lemon zest brighten up the pesto. Serve it with a side of crispy bread to soak up any remaining sauce for a complete, satisfying meal.
